On Sunday Oct. 29th, I will run the Dublin City Marathon.
This year I have decided to raise some money for a cause that is close to my heart; that of Autism; which is a brain-based disorder characterized by social-communication challenges and restricted repetitive behaviors, activities, and interests.

My 7 year old nephew, Diarmuid, was diagnosed with Autism at 3 years old. He is such a wonderful young boy & despite the many challenges he faces on a daily basis, he is contagiously happy & affectionate.

Most parents take it for granted that their child will go to school in their local community. When your child has a disability this is not always a given.

For my nephew going to school in his community was achievable due to the fact that the local school is one of the very few mainstream primary schools in the area that uniquely facilitates children with Autism for the whole of their primary education.

The children who attend the Autism unit benefit from a setting that caters for their individual needs. They have experienced staff supporting them, both in class & more importantly, during unstructured times such as breaks & lunchtime. In addition to covering the academic curriculum in a bespoke fashion, the Autism unit equips children with important life skills that will help them become independent young adults. The school is continuously addressing factors which may act as barriers to the progress of these amazingly talented, yet disabled young children.

Diarmuid also attends multiple clubs & activities that cater for children with Autism in a non-judgemental environment. These include special needs tag rugby, special needs swimming & athletics. These activities & clubs are run by parents & volunteers & they are solely responsible for their own fundraising.

The purpose of my fundraising is to enhance the resources & strategies that are used to help the children in the Autism unit. This will include sourcing specialized equipment for a multi-sensory environment & "outdoor" classroom.

If it wasn't for this Autism unit in his local primary school my nephew would be going to school outside his community. It means so much to his family that he can wear the same uniform as other children even if the rest of it is a bit different to him.

I kindly request that you try to support this worthy cause.

Autism: Different Not Less

NOTE: I personally guarantee to match the total funds raised by Nov. 30th.

Thanks so much. Eugene